The Queens District Attorney’s office has created the city’s first animal cruelty prosecutions unit.
Attorney Nicoletta Caferri will lead the new department. She says the unit will dedicate itself to not only prosecuting, but also investigating animal abuse cases. They'll also work closely with the NYPD's new Animal Cruelty Investigations Squad and work to educate the public on how to recognize animal abuse.
“We'll be able to enhance them in ways that we have not before through these investigative skills, and through skilled trained assistance,” Caferri said. “I think people will be very, very positive about Judge Brown's decision and feel safer in their communities and know that we are dedicated.”
Until now, animal cruelty cases had been prosecuted by different sections of the DA's office.
Officials say you can report animal abuse by calling 311 or 911.